A happy childhood and supportive parents who provided a healthy home life, education and encouragement make CPA Corey Balkon grateful for his upbringing and concerned for kids who have less. “I have always had a passion for organizations that help youths.” Those organizations include Kids Food Basket, Junior Achievement and DA Blodgett-St. Johns Home.

“Acting like the accountant that I am, I try to set a goal of what I can give on an annual basis for the next five years. I then break down my goal into three categories (church, community, heartstring or where my passion is) and give to organizations within these categories.”  

What do you get from giving?
“I was born and raised in the Grand Rapids area. I have seen what all the family philanthropy has done for our city. I want the next generation to continue investing in our community. I get satisfaction in giving and knowing that our community is a national leader in community philanthropy.”

Why the Community Foundation?

“I support Grand Rapids Community Foundation because of its total effect on our community. I believe the Community Foundation has the resources donors need to support the community in a broad and flexible way. I also feel the Community Foundation is innovative in identifying our community’s future needs, which most likely will be different than today’s needs. “